Summer in Elizabethtown, Kentucky (or “Etown,” as we locals call it) is full of music, community spirit, and good old-fashioned fun. As the days get longer, our town comes alive with weekly happenings and big celebrations and you’re invited to all of it. Here’s a peek at the top summer events happening around Etown in 2025.

Tavern in the Garden

Every Thursday, June 5 – September 25

Thursday nights at the Brown-Pusey House are what summer evenings were made for. Set in the beautiful Cunningham Garden, Tavern in the Garden features live local music, a cash bar, food trucks, and plenty of good vibes. Bring a lawn chair or grab a seat under the trees and enjoy this relaxing weekly tradition from 6:00–9:00 PM.a band performing at tavern in the garden

Historic Downtown Walking Tour

Every Thursday, June 5 – September 25

 Before you hit Tavern in the Garden, stroll through Elizabethtown’s rich past on the Charles W. Logsdon Historic Downtown Elizabethtown Walking Tour. Led by costumed guides, this free 7:00 PM tour brings our town’s history to life with fun stories and fascinating facts. Tours start at 40 Public Square, right beneath the cannonball stuck in the wall!a person in period clothes speaking to participants of the historic walking tour

Independence Day Fireworks

July 4

 Founders’ Day and the Fourth of July are rolled into one big celebration in Etown! The night ends with a dazzling fireworks show at ECTC around 10:00 PM. Bring a blanket, grab some snacks, and join the community for this beloved patriotic tradition.small colorful burst of fireworks for the fourth of july

Cruisin’ The Heartland

July 24–26

 One of the biggest events of the year, Cruisin’ The Heartland, is a classic car lover’s dream.

  • July 24 Kick-Off Party
     
  • July 25 Car Show at Freeman Lake Park
     
  • July 26 Cruise-In Downtown with over 2,000 classic cars, live music, food vendors, and fun for all agesa couple driving a car at the cruisin the heartland car show

Lawn Parties at the Bandstand

Second Wednesday of each month, June – September

 Head to Freeman Lake Park for these laid-back concerts by the water. Bring a chair or blanket and enjoy local bands or special performances. With food trucks and drinks available, it’s the perfect midweek outing.People are sitting in lawn chairs at Freeman Lake listening to a band at the Lawn Party in Elizabethtown, Kentucky

See You This Summer in Etown!

From garden tunes to fireworks and classic cars to lakeside concerts, there’s something happening all summer long in Elizabethtown. So mark your calendar, gather your people, and come see what makes our community feel like home.

We’ll save you a seat, cheers to summer!